• The Journal of Korean Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy
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• v.28 no.3
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• pp.21-32
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• 2022

Background: Instrument players are exposed to occupational musculoskeletal symptoms due to constant movement and strain to meet the needs of their audience. This can cause dissonance between the player and the instrument and can cause medical problems in the musculoskeletal system such as pain, tendinitis, muscle spasms, and joint hyperextension from overuse of body parts. Objective: The purpose of this study is to comparatively analyze the characteristics and occurrence of musculoskeletal symptoms in professional and student players, and to find out the awareness of the need for health care professionals and special exercise programs for orchestra players. Methods: The subjects were professional orchestral musicians 191 from the three symphony orchestras and music students 209 from the four universities volunteered to participate in this study; 393 subjects (98.25%) completed the questionnaire. symptom prevalence and related factors of playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) were surveyed with a self-administered questionnaire. Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was complemented by adding a visual-among scale and used to diagnose PRMD. Results: High prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in both professional musicians (85.30%) and student musicians (82.30%). Professional musicians and student musicians also suffered the highest problem in shoulder and neck complaints. Significant differences were found between groups that recognized of necessity for specialized health professionals, professional organizations, and special programs for musicians. Conclusions: Professional musicians and student musicians, like orchestra players, are already exposed to overuse syndrome. However, student musicians lack awareness of the risk of injury compared to orchestra players. We suggest that an appropriate treatment management program for the prevention and early treatment of musculoskeletal system damage should be provided to performers at an early stage.

• Physical Therapy Korea
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• v.25 no.3
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• pp.39-50
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• 2018

Background: High string instrument (violin, viola) players are at high risk for developing musculoskeletal problems. In particular, a higher prevalence of shoulder problems has been reported. However, evidence of the effectiveness of therapeutic exercise for musicians with this condition is lacking until now. Objects: This case series study investigated the effect of a specific exercise program on shoulder pain, dysfunction, and posture of professional orchestral high string musicians. Methods: Five professional orchestral high string players with shoulder pain participated in this study. A six-week specific exercise program focus on scapular stability for shoulder pain consisted of scapular muscle exercise. Physical examinations for pain and dysfunction, posture were performed, were identified among all subjects before starting the exercise program. Results: The results revealed that shoulder pain decreased by 67.86% and the effect of pain on instrument play decreased by 63.33%. The shoulder pain and disability Index and the performing arts module-quick disability of the arm, shoulder and hand scale decreased by 71.72% and 51.61% respectively. The exercise program improved function and posture. Conclusion: A specific exercise program for high string players was effective in managing shoulder pain. This case series is intended to provide empirical data on the effectiveness of an exercise program aimed at assessing the effect of exercise on pain, dysfunction, and posture of professional orchestra musicians associated with specific instrument groups.